HopeMakers: Disrupting the legacy of trauma.
Trauma doesn't just harm those who experience it directly—it ripples outward, shaping behaviours, fuelling violence, and creating new victims. But what if we could interrupt that cycle?
In season one of Hopemakers, we celebrated the extraordinary resilience of individuals who transformed their trauma and adversity into purpose—powerful stories of survival, healing, and hope that proved change is possible.
Now, in season two (coming in 2026) we're expanding our mission. Hosted by Dr Erica Bowen, a registered practitioner forensic psychologist, chartered coaching psychologist, somatic trauma-informed coach and trauma-informed practice consultant, Hopemakers now bridges the personal with the systemic, bringing together three vital perspectives: the lived experiences of survivors who've broken cycles of harm, the cutting-edge research of academics working to reduce violent crime perpetration, and the practical insights of those pioneering trauma-informed approaches in communities and organisations.
Through a somatic lens—understanding how trauma lives in our bodies and shapes our actions—we examine both sides of trauma's devastating cycle: how it wounds us, and how unhealed trauma can lead to harm. Each conversation explores the profound connections between individual healing and violence prevention, offering evidence-based insights alongside deeply human stories.
This isn't just another podcast about trauma recovery. It's about understanding that healing personal wounds and preventing collective harm are two sides of the same coin. By disrupting trauma's legacy at every level—individual, systemic, and intergenerational—we create safer, more compassionate communities for everyone.
Whether you're here for the transformative survivor stories that launched season one, or you're ready to explore the research and practice that can prevent violence before it happens, Hopemakers offers thought leadership, evidence, and above all, hope that change is possible.
Because when we stop trauma in its tracks, we don't just heal individuals—we transform entire legacies.
Subscribe to HopeMakers wherever you listen to podcasts, and discover your own path to hope.
HopeMakers: Disrupting the legacy of trauma.
Episode 1: Standing Tall: How An Autism Advocate Found Hope Through Fitness and Confrontation
Jimmy Clare was diagnosed with autism in third grade, but he refuses to let labels define him. In this powerful episode, Jimmy shares his journey from being bullied throughout his school years to becoming a confident autism advocate and host of the Crazy Fitness Guy podcast.
After years of torment from classmates and even a teacher who called him "lazy," Jimmy reached a turning point when he discovered P90X. This intensive fitness program became more than just exercise – it became his pathway to empowerment. By transforming his body, Jimmy found the courage to literally stand up to his bullies in a dramatic confrontation in math class that changed everything.
Now referring to himself as "slightly autistic," Jimmy bridges the gap between those on and off the spectrum, using his platform to challenge harmful stereotypes about autism. He's passionate about his message: autism doesn't need to be "cured" – it's simply a different way of learning and experiencing the world.
Key takeaways from this episode:
- How physical transformation can build mental resilience and confidence
- The importance of rejecting limiting beliefs about what people with autism can achieve
- Why standing up for yourself is sometimes necessary for personal growth
- The power of finding purpose through advocacy and helping others
Jimmy's story proves that with determination and the right tools, anyone can overcome their circumstances and create the life they want. As he says, "Life is too short to listen to what other people think you should do."
This episode is essential listening for anyone facing bullying, parents of children with autism, or anyone who's been told they can't achieve their dreams because of who they are.